Three-dimensional (3-D) analysis of hard and soft tissue changes in patients after orthognatic surgery

Orthognathic surgery is considered to be a cornerstone for surgically treating dentofacial deformities. It is associated with unwanted relapse over time. The evidence related to hierarchy of orthognathic surgery stability has been mostly based on 2D methodologies and lack of true 3D-based prospective evidence exists. This doctoral thesis aimed to  assess the 3D skeletal and pharyngeal airway space relapse following orthognathic surgery and to observe whether 3D printed patient-specific skeletal models can offer a realistic bone replication. The outcomes of this thesis could allow a more careful treatment planning and application of  patient-specific skeletal models could act as an in vitro surgical medium to control the early relapse risk factors and improve classical surgical techniques.